Travelers to Thailand seeking accommodation with a difference in an authentic cultural setting need not look any further than the award winning Karen Hill Tribe Lodge. Deep in the heart of the mountains northwest of Chiang Mai, lies Wat Chan, an eco-paradise. Visitors to this pristine Eden have the opportunity to participate in a variety of interesting activities, including elephant safaris through the verdant jungle, trekking in the picturesque countryside and an opportunity to learn about the unique lifestyle of the villagers.

More than Accommodation

Elephant Safaris, Trekking, Hill tribe fishing, fresh water shrimping, mushroom hunting and much more. The lodge provides you with a host of activities to choose from. You can always take a leisurely browse through the village to learn about hill tribe life.

Asian elephant safari

Guests staying at the lodge 2 nights or more receive a free 2 hour Elephant Safari guided by a professional mahout over jungle clad hills and along pristine rivers. We offer you the opportunity to accompany the elephants on their daily feeding and bathing routines. Aside from the elephant stomp through the forest, you can try your hand at training these gentle mammals. Elephants love playing in water and enjoy showering by sucking water into their trunks and spraying it all over themselves. Don’t forget your camera!

Trekking

Experienced guides from the lodge will guide you through the mountains and rivers. People of all fitness levels are accommodated; this is trekkingfor everybody who wants to be in the heart of northern Thailand. Trek through beautiful forest, discover crystal clear mountain streams and waterfalls! Great for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Cooking lessons

You will have the opportunity to learn how to collect natural fresh herbs and vegetables from the area, or simply enjoy a cooking lesson at the lodge. Harness the aromas of traditional Thai herbs such as lemongrass and lime leaves, and master curries, soups and stir-fries. Go out into the jungle with an experienced hill tribe guide to discover wild ginseng, gooseberries and mushrooms. We also offer fresh coffee grown in the forest.

Local People

The local people are warm and hospitable and they welcome the chance to share their traditions with guests. If you wish, guests can try their hand at, or just observe the villagers' daily chores such as rice pounding and creative clothing weaving. They're all performed in the labor-intensive, traditional way without the use of machinery.

What to expect

You'll wake up to the sounds of roosters crowing, singing birds, or the cry of the wild gibbon. Remember, you're on easy time here. There's no need to rush. And if you truly want to relax, opt for a traditional Thai massage given by one of the Karen women. Strong hands will work at those tension knots and reinvigorate, not only your body, but your spirit. At night, take part in the enjoyable bonfire ceremony and lantern lighting. Delight in a performance by the proud young hill tribe children and join in their fun dance. It's a stirring end to an unforgettable day.

By Car :
The lodge is situated North West of Chiang Mai. There are 2 ways to reach;
•Via Samerng, only 4x4 will be able to reach.
•Via Pai road from Chiang Mai. On the way to Wat Chan a car may be used, but from Wat Chan to the lodge a 4x4 or a pick up truck must be taken.
How to go to the Lodge
* By renting our 4X4 WD
( 2000 baht/day including Driver but not including gasoline )
* One way Private transfer by 4x4 WD with driver and gasoline,
4,000 Baht
* By local transfer
- Take local transport to Arcade bus station
- Then take mini van to Pai, then take bus from Pai to Wat Chan (Leaves once a day before 12 in the afternoon)
Arrive at Wat Chan, we can arrange 4x4 WD to the lodge ( cost 1500 baht round trip transfer )
At the lodge, Elephant safaris and activities can be arranged
Since the lodge is in the jungle, take necessities since there are no shops nearby.
Contact us for more information on: +6653115802

By Bus :
The lodge is situated North West of Chiang Mai.
* By local transfer
- Take local transport in chiang mai to Arcade bus station
- Then take mini van to Pai, then take bus from Pai to Wat Chan (Leaves once a day before 12 in the afternoon)
Arrive at Wat Chan, we can arrange 4x4 WD to the lodge ( cost 1500 baht round trip transfer )
At the lodge, Elephant safaris and activities can be arranged
Since the lodge is in the jungle, take necessities since there are no shops nearby.
Please contact us on: +6653115802

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